MEMPHIS – As early voting began this week on the referendum to decide the fate of Memphis schools, State Senator Jim Kyle (D-Memphis) filed legislation to repeal the law passed last week that takes the decision out of voters’ hands.

“This bill will raise taxes on the people of Memphis while taking away their voice,” Kyle said. “This is taxation without representation.”

Senate Bill 855 would repeal the law hurriedly passed by Republicans during committee meetings held outside the regular schedule earlier this month. The law adds additional confusion to the March 8 referendum by delaying any possible merger for three years and allowing special school districts that would make such a merger impossible.

The law is the latest in a series of efforts by Republicans to enforce their judgment at the expense of citizens.

“Washington does not have all the answers for Tennessee, just like Nashville doesn’t have all the answers for Memphis. State government is supposed to be about making life better for Tennesseans, not worse,” Kyle said. “Telling someone that their vote won’t affect the final outcome is always worse.”